08/17/2026
Knowing how much to help your child with their speech doesn’t have to feel confusing. 💙💛
One of the best ways to encourage more spontaneous speech is to give your child the support they need to feel successful—and then slowly do less as they become more confident. Both of you will build confidence this way!
Here’s how to try it:
1️⃣ Start with a high-interest activity.
Let your child choose something they love that gives you lots of opportunities for repetition—think toys with lots of pieces, putting things “on” or “in,” taking things “off” or “out,” building, feeding, opening, etc.
2️⃣ Choose ONE functional word.
Pick a word your child can already come close to saying. And remember—it’s okay if their best attempt is only one sound!
3️⃣ Start with the support they need.
Model the word at a level your child can imitate. For example, they might say “ah” for “on,” “buh” for “bus” or “ball,” or “oh” for “open.” Then wait for their attempt. Cheer profusely when your child attempts a new sound or word.
Repeat, repeat, repeat. ✨
Once your child’s response starts becoming easier and quicker…
4️⃣ Take away your voice.
Gain their attention, hold the toy near your mouth, and silently make the movement for the first sound.
Then WAIT.
Will they fill it in for you? 👀
5️⃣ Reduce the prompt again.
Hold the toy near your mouth—but this time, don’t move your lips.
Wait and give them an opportunity to initiate.
6️⃣ Then do even less.
Hold the toy in your hands or keep it in the toy bag…and wait to see if your child spontaneously asks for it.
The goal isn’t to take support away before your child is ready.
It’s to give just enough support for success, then create space for them to initiate spontaneously. We are decreasing their dependence on you!
✨ The progress is in the pause. ✨
(Continued in comments 👇)
